Proposed Texas Smog Rules Trigger Anger and Dismay

Trying to end Houston’s distinction as the nation’s smog capital, Texas is considering reducing speed limits and restricting the use of everything from heavy machinery to lawn mowers.

The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission on Monday began a series of meetings aimed at adopting an eight-county plan to meet federal clean-air standards and reduce ground-level ozone. It was a contentious start.

“You’re talking about shutting this county down,” complained Mike Meador, a Montgomery County commissioner.

Houston replaced Los Angeles last year as the city reporting the most days in violation of federal smog standards. So far this year, it has exceeded the standards 37 days.

Houston’s air quality has become campaign fodder used against Texas Gov. George W. Bush, the Republican presidential nominee.

The state has until the end of the year to submit an acceptable plan to the Environmental Protection Agency or risk losing highway funding and curtailed industrial development.

If the state’s plan doesn’t satisfy EPA officials, the federal agency could take over the air cleanup.

The state’s 19-point plan suggests the reduction of maximum highway speeds to 55 mph statewide, from 70 mph in places; the limitation of heavy equipment use by construction crews and lawn mowers by homeowners; and annual vehicle emissions testing.

The proposal drew widespread complaints Monday, but Commissioner Ralph Marquez warned the crowd of 150 people: “Criticism alone will not change the rules.”